3 reasons to embrace network readiness testing

Live video streaming and file delivery can put a massive strain on enterprise networks. The bandwidth challenges created by such initiatives are such that many organizations can not realistically keep up with the hardware requirements of moving so much information to end users. In response, software-defined technologies like enterprise content delivery network solutions are emerging to add intelligence to the network. As companies consider these technologies, it is essential that they take advantage of network readiness testing. ECDN solutions can streamline delivery, but every live stream event can be a bit different, making effective testing critical.

A network readiness test will help you assess whether your infrastructure is ready to support a specific live stream event, or if it is ready for a large-scale video program in general. Three specific reasons you should embrace readiness testing include:

1. Understanding your current capacity limitations

An initial network readiness test provides essential visibility into the throughput capabilities of your network. Specifically, it can help you understand if you have any network bottlenecks limiting throughput and if infrastructure flaws are causing performance degradation. This knowledge is critical because it lets you identify the specific problems that would limit video performance when you enact your strategy.

With the insights of a network readiness test in place, you can evaluate solutions – be they new hardware or ECDN systems – and ensure the most efficient use of your fiscal resources when making an upgrade.

2. Getting a clear vision of your options

Evaluating your network upgrade options can be incredibly challenging when you don’t have a clear understanding of exactly how your infrastructure is performing. For example, whether or not a hardware upgrade will meet your needs hinges on if you have major bottlenecks. If data is getting clogged in specific places, adding more capacity throughout the rest of your network won’t solve any problems. Knowing the nuances of your network and understanding its readiness for video can help you choose the right solution.

3. Making sure video is ready to go

Network readiness testing isn’t just about choosing a good solution, it also helps you assess a new technology to make sure your live stream events and file transfer processes go down without a hitch. An effective network readiness test can simulate how a video program or large file transfers will end up impacting your network. This knowledge lets you check that any connectivity investments will pay off when it comes time to actually hold your first major live stream event.

This test is essential, as poor performance leads to a negative user experience, which in turn causes your employees to turn against the video program and disengage. Video can transform employee engagement, but only if they are able to access the technology in easy, convenient ways. Network problems eliminate that simplicity for your users, undermining the benefits of the strategy. A good readiness test ensures you don’t run into this problem.